A high water sign is posted on Roberts Station Road in Madison County signifying water from the Forked Deer River to flow across, Monday, Feb. 26. A river flood warning is still in effect until Thursday.
(Photo: KENNETH CUMMINGS/The Jackson Sun)Buy Photo

With the recent severe storms in West Tennessee, and more severe weather expected to hit the area Wednesday, here are some tips to help keep you safe when severe weather strikes:

The go-kit

Have a go-kit handy at home when severe weather strikes. Jackson-Madison County EMA Director Marty Clements said the go-kit should include a helmet, flashlight, gloves, boots and first-aid kit, and important phone numbers and medicines.

Keep up with weather

Check the weather before you travel. Clements said if you have to drive, once your gas tank is half-empty you should fill it up, because you never know how long you’re going to be stuck on the road once severe weather hits.

If you're in the car

If you’re in a car during severe weather, such as a tornado, and cannot get to shelter, Clements said you need to get out of the car and lie down in a low-laying area like a ditch and be as flat as possible. “A lot of these tornadoes are rain-wrapped, so you don’t really see them until it’s too late."

Find a safe place

Look for a safe location you can go to in the event of severe weather — and if you’re at home, find the safest place in your home. A basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows are often the safest places to go, according to the National Weather Service in Memphis. Make sure you have a plan for your pets, as well, and think about how to protect them ahead of severe weather.

Avoid scammers

After the severe weather hits, be aware of potential scammers. Clements said EMA has a list of all the licensed contractors in Madison County and shares the list following severe weather to prevent the community from being scammed by those who want to profit off disaster.